Sacred Site Shaken: Namaz at Shaniwarwada Ignites Fierce Debate, BJP MP Leads 'Purification'

Pune, India – A deep-seated controversy has gripped the city of Pune after a video depicting individuals offering namaz (Muslim prayers) within the hallowed grounds of Shaniwarwada, the historic seat of the Peshwas, went viral across social media platforms. The incident has not only sparked a massive political and religious debate but has also drawn sharp condemnation from various quarters, leading to immediate reactive measures.

The footage, which rapidly gained traction online, showed several individuals performing prayers at the iconic fort.

This act was immediately perceived by many as an affront to the historical and cultural sanctity of Shaniwarwada, a structure deeply emblematic of Maratha pride and heritage. Critics swiftly highlighted its significance as a symbol of Hindu rule and tradition, arguing that religious practices of a different faith should not be performed there.

Reacting strongly to the viral video, BJP MP Murlidhar Mohol spearheaded a 'purification' ritual at the site.

Accompanied by supporters, Mohol, a former mayor of Pune, sprayed 'Ganga Jal' (holy water from the Ganges river) at the spot where the namaz was reportedly offered. Chants of 'Jai Shri Ram' resonated through the historic complex as he performed the ceremony, a clear demonstration of the heightened emotional and political stakes involved.

Mohol vehemently condemned the incident, characterizing it as a deliberate attempt to 'disturb the peace' and 'create division' within the city.

He asserted that such actions would not be tolerated in Pune, a city he proudly referred to as 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's and Peshwas' land,' underscoring the deep historical and cultural resonance of the location. He further demanded strict action against those responsible for the prayers, emphasizing the need to uphold the sanctity of historical monuments.

Police authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter.

Given that Shaniwarwada falls under the purview of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), strict regulations govern activities within its premises. Officials are examining whether the offering of prayers constitutes a violation of these rules, which typically prohibit religious rituals that are not historically associated with the monument or could cause public disturbance.

Initial reports suggest that the namaz was offered by members of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), including its city president, Rubina Sayyed, and others.

These individuals reportedly claimed their act was a form of protest against the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, intended to pray for peace. However, this explanation has done little to quell the outrage, with many viewing it as an opportunistic and provocative act.

The controversy further intensified with the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti announcing its own plans to conduct 'Shuddhikaran' (purification) rituals at Shaniwarwada, signaling a potential escalation of religious and political tensions.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare questioned the timing and police inaction, suggesting that such incidents might be orchestrated to ignite communal discord ahead of elections. The Shaniwarwada incident remains a potent symbol of the ongoing cultural and political fault lines in India, with its implications continuing to unfold.